Paid Work Opportunity Opens for Refugee Graduates in Kenya
Kakuma, 16 June 2026
A groundbreaking 12-month paid work programme now offers refugees and displaced graduates in Kakuma and Kalobeyei a rare chance to gain work experience, mentorship, and career training—bridging the gap between education and employment in one of Africa’s largest refugee settlements.
Who Can Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme is specifically designed for young graduates facing significant barriers to employment. Eligible candidates must meet several key criteria [1]:
What the Programme Offers
Participants in the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme will receive a comprehensive package of support designed to facilitate their transition into the workforce [1]:
How to Apply
Applications for the Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme are currently open, and interested candidates can follow these steps to apply [1]:
Key Deadlines and Timeline
The Mastercard Foundation Associates Programme operates on a rolling application basis, meaning there is no fixed deadline for submissions. However, candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible, as placements are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis [1].
Why This Programme Matters
Youth unemployment remains one of the most pressing challenges in Africa, with the International Labour Organization (ILO) reporting that over 60% of Africa’s unemployed population are young people [GPT]. For refugees and IDPs, the barriers to employment are even higher due to limited access to networks, documentation challenges, and discrimination [GPT].
Support Available for Applicants
Recognising the challenges that refugees and IDPs may face during the application process, the Mastercard Foundation and UNHCR have established multiple support channels [1]: